2010 Subaru Impreza WRX Overview Change Vehicle

This 2010 Subaru Impreza WRX overview explains changes for the model year, provides a summary of the 2010 Impreza WRX, and includes Subaru WRX safety, reliability, and fuel economy information.

For 2010, the Subaru WRX is available as a base model and a new Premium model, which essentially represents what had been the optional Premium Package. The 2010 WRX STi has been updated to include black upholstery instead of gray, and the navigation system that’s available on all WRX models features integrated Bluetooth connectivity.

Like the models that have come before it, the 2010 Subaru WRX’s lineup starts off with a base model that’s not all that basic. At its core is a 265-horsepower turbocharged engine, beyond which you’ll find a sport-tuned suspension, 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in performance tires, power mirrors and windows, leather interior trim, cruise control, and sporty bucket seats up front.

The new-for-2010 WRX Premium model builds on the base WRX’s foundation by adding an upgraded 10-speaker surround sound system with a six-disc CD changer, secondary audio controls on the steering wheel, and a input jack that will accommodate your iPod or other MP3 player. Also included among the standard features are heated mirrors and front seats, fog lights, and a power moonroof.

What you can’t get in either the WRX or WRX Premium is a 305-horsepower turbocharged engine and extras like Subaru’s Intelligent Drive (SI-DRIVE) system or what the company calls a Driver Controlled Center Differential. These bits are reserved for the 2010 WRX STi, as are 18-inch wheels and high-performance tires, leather and suede seat fabric, and more.

Finding its way onto the options list is the Navigation Package, which as you might’ve guessed features a navigation system. It’s a touch-screen unit with built-in Bluetooth connectivity and an audio equalizer called Audyssey MultEQ.

As it turns out, not every turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is the same, a point proven by the 2010 Subaru WRX, WRX Premium and WRX STi. All three utilize the same motor, but the STi uses a larger intercooler to jack output up to 305 horses and 290 pound-feet of torque. Contrast that to the WRX and WRX Premium with ratings of 265 horses and 244 pound-feet of twist. Opt for the hi-po STi and you’ll be working with a six-speed manual that’s estimated to burn through a gallon of premium unleaded every 17 miles in city driving or 23 miles out on the highway. The less powerful non-STi variants, equipped with a standard five-speed stick, earn ratings of 18-mpg city/25-mpg highway.

This is shaping up to be a good year for buyers of the 2010 Subaru WRX. Unlike what we’ve seen in the recent past, Consumer Reports and J.D. Power and Associates are predicting better-than-average reliability from this sporty Subie. That’s a definite improvement over 2009’s ratings, which were below average.

In terms of safety, nothing has changed for 2010, and that’s a good thing. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gives Subaru’s small sedan and hatch 4- and 5-Star ratings in its various categories. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety says the Impreza is a Top Safety Pick, but also claims that the WRX is not included in that rating.

In the world of hot hatches – and small sedans – the Subaru Impreza has earned its spot among the best with standard all-wheel drive, powerful turbocharged engines, and relative affordability. Some may bicker about the styling, but more important is the issue of value and reliability, which has seen a welcome boost for 2010 with improved ratings from Consumer Reports and J.D. Power and Associates. If you’re in the market for a pocket rocket, Subaru just gave you another reason to consider a model from its WRX lineup.

By Thom Blackett